Answering the query for reliable kick plates and related anti-damage devices for outboard motors, these top picks help shield your lower unit during shallow water, submerged obstructions, or rocky bottoms. Best for anglers navigating inlets and bays, for boaters repower projects, and for recreational skiffs needing added engine height control. The following five products offer a mix of breakaway, hydraulic, and fixed mounting options to suit different engine types and mounting configurations. The quick-reference table below highlights each option’s best use case and primary benefit.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| CMC BA-130 Breakaway unit 13003 | Medium to high HP boats | Breakaway design to reduce damage during impacts |
| Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate | Outboards up to 115 HP | Delrin rollers for smooth operation and safety tether |
| Bob’s Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series Kick-Back Jac | Shallow-water navigation | Hydraulic lift for adjustable clearance and protection |
| 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support | Small to mid-size boats | Heavy-duty aluminum with adjustable height |
| MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback | Long-to-short shaft transoms | Extend 4″ for better mounting height |
CMC BA-130 Breakaway unit 13003
Features: Rated for boat engine up to 130 HP. Mounted between the boat transom and the motor. Not designed to encounter obstructions while operating in reverse.
Best for: Boats with mid-range to higher horsepower where occasional impacts occur near the transom area. Suitable for operators who want a breakaway mechanism to reduce potential damage during unexpected contact with submerged objects. Selection rationale: The 130 HP rating aligns with many popular outboards, and the breakaway design provides extra protection during shallow or obstacle-filled runs.
Caution: Designed to disengage when hit, which may require inspection after use and reinstallation for repeated protection in rocky environments.
Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate
Features: Rated for outboards up to 115 HP. Delrin rollers and bearings for smooth operation. Motor tether attachment point for safety.
Best for: Smaller to mid-size outboards where smooth mechanical action and a secure tether improve handling in shallow water. Why chosen: The Delrin components reduce friction and wear, while the safety tether helps prevent accidental motor loss during rough seas.
Limitation: The 115 HP ceiling means higher-powered rigs should consider a different option if maximum lift is needed beyond this range.
Bob’s Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series Kick-Back Jac
Features: 6″ hydraulic stroke with a 1.5″ built-in structure lift, for a total of 7.5″ lift. Enhances clearance in shallow water and around submerged objects. Delrin rollers and a motor tether point for safety.
Best for: Boats operating in very shallow channels or where deeper prop risk exists, needing adjustable lift. Rationale: The hydraulic action provides controlled, adjustable height to minimize damage without manual cranking.
Limitation: Hydraulic systems may require occasional maintenance to preserve smooth operation over time.
2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support
Features: Compatibility for 2-stroke outboard motors from 7.5 HP to 20 HP, heavy-duty aluminum frame, adjustable height with 5-position locking height.
Best for: Small powerboats and beginner-to-mid-range setups that need a lightweight, sturdy mounting and height adjustment. Why selected: The low-to-mid horsepower range aligns with many classic small boats, making setup straightforward. Limitations: Not recommended for most four-stroke engines, which may require different mounting solutions.
MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback
Features: Designed for clamp-on mount outboard motors up to 35 HP. Includes wooden mounting block. Extends 4″ off transom to improve mounting height.
Best for: Small boats using short-to-long shaft configurations where a practical, budget-friendly setback is beneficial. Rationale: The 4″ extension helps position the motor higher for better waterline alignment and performance. Caution: Clamp-on mounting can require careful alignment to ensure secure installation in rough seas.
Buying Guide
What type of protection do you need? Choose between breakaway, hydraulic, or fixed jack plates based on fuel efficiency, typical water depth, and boating environment. Breakaway units sacrifice a potential reattachment step for exterior protection; hydraulic plates offer adjustable height for varying water depth; fixed jack plates provide a simple, sturdy solution for consistent mounting height.
What engine horsepower ranges matter? If you operate large outboards (roughly 115–130 HP), prioritize models that explicitly support higher HP and rugged use. For small engines, lighter-duty options with simpler installation can be more cost-effective and easier to maintain.
How important is ease of installation? Consider torque requirements, mounting surface compatibility, and whether you need additional hardware such as mounting blocks or tethers. Some options include wooden blocks or tether points as part of the package, which can simplify setup and safety.
What about maintenance and wear? Delrin rollers and bearings reduce friction and wear, but all moving parts require periodic inspection for corrosion and lubrication compatibility with marine environments. Hydraulic models need occasional checks for hydraulic fluid and seals.
Which mounting approach matches your boat type? Clamp-on, transom-mounted, and built-in jack plates each suit different transom designs. For skiffs and inflatables, a lighter, adjustable plate may be ideal. For larger center-console boats, a more robust solution with higher lift and secure mounting is often preferred.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a kick plate for outboard motors? It is a protective device mounted near the lower unit to prevent or minimize damage when the prop encounters obstacles or shallow water, often incorporating a lift or breakaway mechanism.
- Do these plates require professional installation? Some are simple clamp-on or transom-mounted designs, but others involve mounting hardware and alignment. Follow manufacturer instructions and ensure secure installation before operation.
- Can a kick plate affect engine height or performance? Yes, some models extend or lift the engine to improve waterline alignment and clearance, which can influence handling and efficiency in various conditions.
- Are hydraulic options better than fixed plates? Hydraulic options offer adjustable height for changing conditions, while fixed plates are simpler and typically cheaper. Choose based on how often you need different clearance levels.
- Will these work with all outboard brands? Many are designed for standard transom configurations and universal mounting, but always verify compatibility with your specific motor and transom setup.
- What should I inspect after a hit or impact? Check for loosened bolts, misalignment, and any deformation to the mounting plate, tether points, or the engine mounting area. Replace or service as required.